>The Roller Coaster Ride of Genesis

>There is a contest within the ACFW called Genesis. It’s a huge contest within the Christian Writing World. Its an opportunity for unpublished writers to place their novels in front of agents and editors and have them go through their first 15 pages and mark them. In each category there are finalists. In the past the majority of the finalists have signed on with agents. Of course this is everyone’s dream. Including mine. I’ve been a bit anxious all week waiting to find out where I stood with this contest. Like so many others I know. And like so many others, I didn’t finalize.

I’ll be honest. When I read the news yesterday, it hurt. A fellow writer in a critique group of mine did. I was so happy for her – still am, what an amazing opportunity. I’ll get my ‘score’ or judges remarks within a few weeks – which will be good. I can go through and find out what needs to be fixed to make it a stronger piece. But it still hurt.

You know that pain – that heavy shroud of disappointment that just settles on you? But then this morning I realized something. It still doesn’t take away that feeling, but it helps. I did what so many others DIDN’T do. I submitted. I placed my work in the hands of those who know what they are doing and I’ll get feedback – something so crucially important to me. More feedback than just a regular query rejection. And you know what – my writing will improve. My skills will sharpen, my words will come together in a tighter fashion. I will become a better writer!

So congratulations to all those who finalized in the Genesis contest! I really am excited for you all and can’t wait to find out what happens next for you in this journey. Hopefully next year I’ll be contracted with an agent and won’t be able to submit, but if not – then I’ll have another piece or two to send in and hope to feel exactly what you are feeling right now when I find out that I am a finalist 🙂

>Such an inspiring post! Rejection is so difficult, but I believe your comments about putting yourself out there by entering are so true–there are worse things than rejections, such as never trying (and, therefore, never knowing "what could have been).I get giddy everytime I enter a contest, and to date no wins on my end…but, like you, I will keep trying, just as I'll keep sending out those queries!

>As one of those who didn't submit, I congratulate you! And don't forget what "Genesis" means–beginning. This may not be the end of your publishing journey, but it could be the beginning of something wonderful.

>Oh don't worry – I've been drowing my sorrows in chocolate all day 🙂 I'm such an emotional eater. I'm disappointed in myself more than anything – but I'll use this, grow from this and not let it stop me. Genesis – beginning – Gracie – I never put the two together before. Thanks for that!Angela – while I'd rather win, you're right … if I don't submit then I can't fail. If I don't fail, then I don't grow. But dang it all, failing just means more chocolate and I'm telling you, these hips can't handle more chocolate :)Anita – just you wait! I'm looking forward to my 'aha' moment 🙂

>Yep, I know that hurt. *hugs* But I like what Elana said. Not only that, but once you get the scores you might find that there was just a subjectivity thing going on rather than a problem with the story. 🙂 I hope you get some encouraging, helpful comments!

>Good for you for giving it a try! And you're right, you will get some great feedback that will help you to improve while countless others will be sitting on the sidelines. Congrats for taking the first step!

>It's a contest. It's supposed to be subjective. This year's chopped liver may be next year's prize manuscript. I entered 4, yes, count 'em four times with four manuscripts in 2009. And finaled ZERO times. OUCH!! (Financial ouch too, lol!)But….I sold one of those manuscripts. The goal is to get an editor read, to get good feedback, or possibly a little monetary reward or bling. The Genesis is notorious for good feedback. So use it and keep writing. Kudos to you for having the guts to enter!